Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper today insisted he is staying at St James's Park - but added that he is to ditch his unlucky squad number.

Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper today insisted he is staying at St James's Park - but added that he is to ditch his unlucky squad number.

The long-serving goalkeeper is to swap from 13 to 12 for the coming season, hoping that it will bring a change of luck for the Easington-born player who made just three first-team appearances last season, with Shay Given Newcastle's first choice.

Sir Bobby Robson last month appealed for United's back-up keeper to be patient, Harper not having played in the Premiership since January 2001.

And Harper, who has just become a father for the first time, is ready to pursue his United career as Newcastle try to finally bring a trophy back to St James's Park following 34 barren years.

He reported back for pre-season training yesterday along with those players not involved in international duty this summer, including new signing Lee Bowyer, and is hoping for a change in fortunes.

"There's a good buzz about the place and now I just want to get a good season under my belt," said the 28-year-old.

"I've been here a long time, 12 years, and I'm from the area, so I don't want to leave. But I want to play more than three games a season. If I can play more then I'll be the happiest man in the world. My luck's got to change sometime.

"We'll be playing a lot of games again, hopefully with us getting through the Champions League qualifiers and into the group stage, and hopefully I'll get a chance.

"Shay has done fantastically well and steered clear of injuries. He's made the most consecutive appearances in the Premiership and, while I wouldn't wish an injury on anyone, that run has to come to an end one day."

And Harper will be wearing a different squad number this season, taking Andy Griffin's No 12 shirt with the right-back likely to don Warren Barton's old No 2 jersey.

He added: "I'm not superstitious but my family and friends have said to me that I should change - and I'm getting nearer the No 1! It has taken me 12 years to get down to No 12 so you never know!"

Harper's commitment to stay at St James's will delight boss Robson, who said last month: "I'll be talking to Steve when we report back for training and all I can say to him is to keep soldiering on and to stay patient."

Former Seaham Red Star goalkeeper Harper signed a new five-year contract last year but several clubs have been monitoring his situation.

His appearances have been limited by the form of Irish international Given, who has played in 91 consecutive Premiership games for United.